In Mercer County, finalize your Hurricane Sandy prep today

TRENTON — Mercer County Executive Brian Hughes urged residents to make their final preparations ahead of what may be a storm for the history books.

“There is no doubt about it; this is a dangerous storm,” Hughes stressed. “If you don’t have a plan, waste no more time in creating one. If you need supplies, obtain them today. If you need to relocate, contact your friends and family today. Forecasts show this storm could rival Irene in terms of flooding and degree of damage, and we all need to expect the worst as we all hope for the best.

Additionally, Hughes stressed that if you do not have a plan for the storm, to make one, get your supplies today and if relocation is necessary contact friends and family today.

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The impending storm is forecasted to rival Tropical Storm Irene in terms of damage and flooding, Hughes said.

According to the release from the county executive, recycling schedules can be checked on the Mercer County Improvement Authority website at www.mcia-nj.com.

The County executive said that because of the storm’s variable nature, information about what government offices will be closed has not yet been determined.

Mercer County Park Facilities closed to the public at 4 p.m today. All outdoor facilities are also closed on Oct. 29 and Oct. 30

Mercer County residents are urged to “shelter in place,” meaning there is no need to go to a municipal, county or state designated shelter unless directed by officials. The loss of power is not a reason to seek shelter, officials said.

The temperatures following Sandy are not nearly as extreme as what was seen following Tropical Storm Irene that saw temperatures climb into the 90s.

“You will be safer by staying put, hunkering down and riding out the storm at home,” Hughes stressed. If residents are in distress however, they should call 9-1-1. In Trenton, the Joyce Kilmer School will open as a shelter if needed. In Mercer County, the Mercer County Community College will serve as a shelter if needed. Neither location is open yet. www.njredcross.org

County Officials warned of prolonged power outages and reminds residents that any downed power line should be assumed to be a live or electrified wire.

Mercer County runs Nutrition Sites at various senior citizen centers around the county.

When those Nutrition Sites are closed because of weather, participants are encouraged to consume their “blizzard boxes,” meals provided a few weeks ago in anticipation of winter storms. Blizzard boxes contain non-perishables such as tuna and crackers.